Fundraiser Organized for Ailing Deputy

Friends of retired Richmond County Sheriff’s Deputy Jeff Thompson will gather Friday night, November 22, at 7 p.m. at Sidetrack Bar and Grill to raise money to help his family pay for mounting medical bills.

Thompson, a 20-plus-year law enforcement veteran, suffered a stroke in 2010 and retired in 2011. Since then, doctors discovered an additional clot blocking his kidney. The 46-year-old is currently in hospice care because of the deadly clotting disease. His family, who still owes thousands in hospital bills, pays several hundred dollars a month out of pocket for his care, even after insurance.

To help Jeff and his wife Jessica cover some of those expenses, the law enforcement community has rallied support, setting up an account at Wells Fargo, that anyone can donate to, in the name of “Benefit for Jeff Thompson.” In addition, a raffle is being held for a Glock 27, which will be awarded on January 2. Tickets are $5 each or five for $20.

And this Friday night they’ll gather at Sidetrack, 4029 Washington Road, for food, live music by Wingman, a silent auction, raffle and door prizes. The public is invited.

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